5 Must‑See Things to Do This October in Las Vegas

October brings perfect fall weather to the Mojave Desert and a lineup of blockbuster events that prove why Las Vegas is the world’s entertainment capital. From once‑in‑a‑lifetime concerts to thrilling sports showdowns and can’t‑miss conventions, 2025 is packed with experiences you won’t want to skip. Whether you’re a local looking for new adventures or planning a fall getaway, these five events are the most buzzed-about things to do in Las Vegas this October.

1. When We Were Young Festival (Oct 18–19)

Las Vegas Festival Grounds transforms into a giant throwback party with the When We Were Young Festival, a two‑day pop‑punk and emo extravaganza. After selling out in minutes, organizers expanded the festival to two days—both with the same lineup—to meet overwhelming demand. The 2025 edition features Blink‑182, Panic! at the Disco, Weezer, Avril Lavigne, The Offspring, All Time Low and dozens of other nostalgia‑inducing bands, creating a Vans Warped‑Tour‑style experience. The event is known for its throwback atmosphere; fans dress in studded belts and band tees and enjoy blacktop stages reminiscent of the Warped Tour’s heyday. With a full weekend of sing‑along anthems and old‑school camaraderie, this festival is the ultimate soundtrack to your fall.

More info at rockcellarmagazine.com.

Why it’s a must‑see:

• Massive lineup spanning multiple generations of pop‑punk and alternative music.

• Expanded to two days because of huge demand, giving fans more opportunities to attend.

• Nostalgic Warped‑Tour vibe with festival‑grounds ambiance

2. UFC 320: Ankalaev vs. Pereira 2 (Oct 4)

Mixed martial arts fans get treated to a double‑header title bout at UFC 320, which takes over T‑Mobile Arena on Saturday, October 4. The main event features a rematch for the light heavyweight championship between Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Pereira, while the co‑main event pits bantamweight contenders Merab Dvalishvili and Cory Sandhagen for the division’s crown. Doors open at 2 PM and fights begin at 3 PM, giving attendees hours of non‑stop action as top fighters battle for supremacy on the sport’s biggest stage.

More info at t-mobilearena.com.

Why it’s a must‑see:

• High‑stakes rematch for the undisputed light heavyweight title.

• Co‑main bantamweight title bout adds another championship clash to the card.

• Electric atmosphere inside T‑Mobile Arena with passionate MMA fans.

3. PBR Camping World Teams Championship (Oct 24–26)

The Professional Bull Riders (PBR) Camping World Teams Championship concludes its season with a “winner‑takes‑all” finals weekend at T‑Mobile Arena. After 12 weeks of competition, the top 10 bull‑riding teams converge on Las Vegas, but only eight teams survive the first night. Over three days, riders compete in a dramatic playoff to claim the championship buckle and the 2025 Teams title. Fans can cheer on their favorite team Friday at 7:45 PM, Saturday at 7:15 PM and Sunday at 1:45 PM. Rivalries and camaraderie run high as riders attempt eight‑second rides on some of the toughest bulls in the sport.

More info at: pbrteamschampionship.com

Why it’s a must‑see:

• Final showdown of the PBR Team Series season with a “winner‑takes‑all” format.

• Three‑day event offers multiple chances to catch the action.

• Unique team‑based bull‑riding adds strategy and team spirit to traditional rodeo thrills.

4. Las Vegas Marathon & Half Marathon (Oct 26)

Runners take to the streets on October 26 for the Las Vegas Marathon, the city’s signature road race. Participants can choose from a full marathon (26.2 miles), half marathon (13.1 miles) or a unique 7.02‑mile distance. The scenic course starts in Red Rock Canyon, winds through Downtown Summerlin, Symphony Park and the 18b Arts District, then heads down Las Vegas Boulevard before finishing under the dazzling lights of the Fremont Street Experience. The event invites runners to “#runvegas” and become part of the city’s running history.

More info at raceraves.com.

Why it’s a must‑see:

• Offers three race distances, making it accessible for runners of all abilities.

• Scenic route showcases iconic Las Vegas neighborhoods and landmarks.

• Finish line celebration at Fremont Street provides a uniquely Vegas party vibe.

5. IMEX America 2025 (Oct 7–9)

Held at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center, IMEX America is one of the world’s premier events for the meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) industry. This massive trade show brings together event planners, suppliers and industry professionals for three days of networking, collaboration and education. Attendees can meet with suppliers from around the globe, hear from keynote speakers and participate in educational sessions on the latest trends and best practices in event management IMEX America is a must for anyone in the meetings and events industry looking to expand their network and gain fresh inspiration.

More info at network.vegas.

Why it’s a must‑see:

• Largest meetings and events trade show in North America, attracting a global audience.

• Provides educational sessions and keynote speakers covering trends and innovations.

• Ideal for networking with hundreds of suppliers and professionals in the MICE industry.

Plan Your Ultimate October in Vegas

Las Vegas in October is more than just mild weather—it’s a month packed with world‑class festivals, sports and conventions. Whether you’re rocking out to Blink‑182 at When We Were Young, cheering on bull riders at the PBR championship, watching titles change hands at UFC 320, running past iconic landmarks in the Las Vegas Marathon or forging new business connections at IMEX America, there’s something for everyone. Book tickets early, plan your itinerary and get ready to experience the best things to do in Las Vegas this October.